The physical appearance of a lawn is essential for most gardeners, greenkeepers and groundstaff. The density, firmness and uniformity play critical roles in determining the longevity and performance of the green. 

With years of research and experience, the team at Grass Science Seeds have broken down their top 5 ways of maximising turf performance for a more consistent and reliable lawn. 

1. Mow The Lawn Frequently  

One fundamental way to ensure turf remains thick and healthy is through regular cutting. Mowing the lawn frequently slows the upward growth of grass, allowing it to adapt and spread across the surface. During this time, the roots will continue to grow horizontally and vertically. 

Regularly trimming the grass will ensure the turf is anchored into the ground more securely, making it resistant to damage. However, it is essential to note that some grass varieties have different tolerances to short cuts, making it important to know what type of turf you have. 

2. Water Your Turf Regularly 

Grass plants are 80% water and contain nutrients in every cell, the water encouraging the plant to grow new roots and shoots. However, as the turf is exposed to sunlight throughout the day, it is more susceptible to dehydration than any other plant. When grass dehydrates, it will become wilted and lose colour, causing the growth of new shoots to become delayed. 

Turf will typically require more water between April and October, especially if there have been less than 20 minutes of continuous rainfall during the day. To prevent the chance of grass becoming dehydrated during this time, it is essential to regularly water the lawn at least once a week to ensure it has plenty of fluid to survive.

3. Control Weeds, Insects & Disease

Weeds are invasive plants that compete with grass for space to grow. There are multiple options for controlling weeds such as dandelions and clover, including chemical and non-chemical solutions. 

Non-chemical means are often the most achievable and affordable practices for eliminating weeds from greenspaces. Simply digging the unwanted plants from the area and disposing of them can prevent seedlings from further cultivating in the grass. Alternatively, introducing good cultivation methods can help to deter pests and diseases. 

Chemical-based weed killers can also offer a quick fix to weeds and pests. However, these methods can cause damage to the surrounding turf, so it is crucial to be careful when applying them to the area. 

4. Carry Out Soil Tests 

Understanding what is beneath the grass helps to maintain the turf throughout the year. Elements such as nitrogen levels and pH are critical for a healthy lawn.  

Maintaining the correct soil pH not only helps with plant growth but also influences the response from the nutrient supply. Soil tests, such as pH strip tests, help to identify how acidic the soil is, which nutrients are present and if any supplements are needed.

5. Fertilise The Grass

Maximising turf performance is dependent on the methods of fertilisation. Like most plants, organic fertilisers are a great way of encouraging a healthy lawn which will provide dense, quality turf all year round. 

Fertiliser recovers greens from general wear and tear from throughout the year, helping to return the grass to its original upright shape and form. 

For more information on how to maximise your turf performance, visit our website.